Hoersholm, 2013-03-01 11:03 CET (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
Company announcement no 09/2013
1 March 2013
Chr. Hansen has a leading position in the probiotics market with a number of probiotic strains supported by clinical documentation. Chr. Hansen aims to retain the position as the probiotics supplier with the best documented products.
Background
In 2010 Chr. Hansen initiated a clinical study program. The program is aiming at further documenting the beneficial effect of two of the main probiotic strains on the immune system and gastrointestinal health.
Status
The two remaining studies which related to gastrointestinal health are now in the finalization process and a preliminary analysis has been conducted. Despite indications of positive results the studies’ primary end points were not met and consequently Chr. Hansen assesses that the combined data currently available is insufficient for approval of an EU health claim. An impairment of capitalized development expenditure around EUR 8 million is therefore expected in 2012/13.
Chr. Hansen is committed to differentiate through documentation of the positive effects of probiotic cultures. Chr. Hansen will now conduct further analysis to establish a full understanding of the value of the new knowledge the study results have provided before determining our next activities within clinical studies on probiotic cultures.
Outlook
The guidance for 2012/13 (as stated in company announcement of 31 October 2012) is unchanged despite the results of the clinical studies on gastrointestinal health. The 3-5 year outlook (as stated in company announcement of 31 October 2012) is also unchanged.
Data on Probiotic sales in EU
Chr. Hansen sells a number of probiotic strains with different indications including among others gastrointestinal health, immune system and women’s health. The total sales of probiotic cultures in the European Union as ingredients in yogurt (Cultures & Enzymes Division) and dietary supplements (Health & Nutrition Division) accounts for less than 7% of total revenue for Chr. Hansen.
For further information, please contact:
Anders Mohr Christensen, Senior Director, Investor Relations
Tel: +45 4574 7618
Kristine Ahrensbach, Director, Corporate Communications
Tel: +45 4574 7623
About Chr. Hansen
Chr. Hansen is a global bioscience company that develops natural ingredient solutions for the food, nutritional, pharmaceutical and agricultural industries. The products are centered around cultures, enzymes, probiotics and natural colors, and all solutions are based on strong research and development competencies coupled with significant technology investments. Revenue in the 2011/12 financial year was EUR 699 million. The company holds a leading market position in all its divisions: Cultures & Enzymes, Health & Nutrition and Natural Colors. It has more than 2,450 dedicated employees in over 30 countries. Chr. Hansen was founded in 1874 and is listed on NASDAQ OMX Copenhagen. For further information, please visit www.chr-hansen.com.
